Courier Friends to Follow

Many things make Valetine's sepcial

In the pulpit

By Edith Anderson
Columnist

POSTED:February 11, 2013 8:30 p.m.

Love is in the air.Thursday is Valentine’s Day, a time of love and special displays of love. From simple expressions as “I love you,” “Will you be my valentine,” or “Happy Valentine’s Day,” this romantic day is not only celebrated in this country, but in other counties, as well.According to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 1 billion valentine cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second-largest card-sending holiday of the year. Although not a holiday wherein businesses are closed and flags are flown, Valentine’s Day is a special time in the hearts of many. Every Feb. 14, across the United States and in other places around the world, billions of dollars are spent all in the name of love. Valentine’s Day causes even the toughest people to duck into the store to get some candy or a card to express their feelings of love for that special person. The first commercial Valentine’s Day greeting cards produced in the United States were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland, according to history.com. Known as the Mother of the Valentine, she made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as scrap.Valentine cards often are decorated with images such as hearts, red roses or cupid. In addition to cards, people spend money on other gifts such as flowers, chocolate, candy, champagne or sparkling wine, and lingerie. Red roses seem to be the flower of choice.Some dig a little bit deeper into their pockets and use this special occasion to surprise their loved with gifts like jewelry, cars and romantic vacations. Many restaurants and hotels also have special offers that may include romantic meals or weekend breaks just for couples.In 2012, according to theatlantic.com, Valentine’s Day spending in America was expected to reach nearly $15 billion, with $2 billion of going toward flowers. Spend some quality time with your loved one(s) on Valentine’s Day. Don’t forget to tell them that you love them. If you feel that you are all alone and have no one to say “I love you” to, always remember that God loves you. It was his unconditional love that caused Him to send his only begotten son, Jesus, to die for our sin.Because of His love, we can celebrate this day of love and joy. Why not make the day extra special for someone by expressing an act of love? Give them a card, some flowers or candy to brighten their day.Happy Valentine’s Day.